Every month, millions of people around the world face something that's as natural as breathing—getting their periods. For some, it's just an annoying monthly routine, but for millions of others, it's a much bigger problem due to period poverty. Imagine not having access to the basic menstrual products you need or even a clean and private place to manage your period. This is a reality for too many people, turning a natural cycle into a heavy burden.
In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what period poverty really means, how it affects people's lives, and what we can do to help solve this problem.
What Is Period Poverty, Anyway?
Period poverty is when someone can’t afford menstrual products or lacks access to facilities to handle their period hygienically. It’s a global issue affecting people in both poor and wealthy countries. According to UNICEF, around 500 million people worldwide don’t have what they need to manage their periods safely. This lack can lead to serious health issues, missed school or work, and social stigmas that make life even harder for those affected.
The Cost of Menstruation
Let's talk money. Buying menstrual products every month can seriously add up, and it’s not like these products are optional for people who menstruate.
In the U.S., a pack of tampons or pads can cost $7 to $10, adding up to more than $150 a year. For someone on a tight budget, that’s a huge expense.
In the UK, the lifetime cost of menstrual products is around £4,800. That’s enough to buy a decent used car!
In places like Kenya and India, the cost is even more burdensome. Many girls end up missing school because they can’t afford pads, and some eventually drop out altogether.
It’s shocking that something so basic is treated like a luxury when, for many, it’s a necessity that shouldn’t come with such a hefty price tag.
Health Risks
When people don’t have access to safe menstrual products, they’re often forced to use whatever they can find, like old rags or even leaves. This can lead to a host of health problems.
Infections: Using unsanitary materials can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs), which can cause long-term health issues if not treated.
Mental Health: Beyond physical health, the stress and embarrassment of managing a period without proper products can take a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety and depression.
Impact on Education
For many young people, period poverty means missing out on school. It’s hard to focus on learning when you’re worried about leaks or feeling embarrassed.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, one in ten girls misses school because of her period. That adds up to about 20% of the school year.
In India, a study found that 23% of girls drop out of school once they start menstruating.
These missed days can add up, affecting education and future opportunities, and it also highlights how period poverty contributes to gender inequality.
Societal Stigma and Discrimination
On top of everything, menstruation comes with a lot of stigma in many cultures. People are often taught to see periods as something shameful or dirty, which just adds to the burden of those who menstruate.
Cultural Taboos: In some cultures, menstruating individuals are seen as "unclean" and are excluded from certain activities or places. This reinforces the idea that periods are something to hide or be ashamed of.
Workplace Issues: Even in professional settings, menstruation can lead to discrimination, with people facing ridicule or being denied sick leave when they need it due to painful periods.
Everyone can play a part in ending period poverty. Here are a few ways you can contribute:
Support Organisations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that provide menstrual products and education.
Advocate for Change: Contact your local representatives and push for policies that address period poverty and support menstrual equity.
Educate and Spread Awareness: Talk openly about menstruation and share information to help break the stigma.
Periods shouldn’t be a burden that affects health, education, and self-esteem. By addressing period poverty and promoting menstrual equity, we can make sure everyone can manage their periods with dignity and without worry. Let’s take action to end this silent crisis so that menstruation becomes just another part of life—not a monthly struggle.
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